Assembly Should Be Involved In State Police Search Committee

Assembly Minority Leader Brian Kolb (R,C-Canandaigua) today issued the following statement on the search committee that has been formed to name a replacement for outgoing State Police Superintendent Joseph D’Amico.“In today’s world, protecting New Yorkers presents greater challenges than we’ve ever seen. The search committee selecting our next State Police Superintendent has an important job ahead, and must call on as much first-hand experience as possible. Prior to being elected to the state Assembly, Minority Conference members Michael Montesano, Al Graf, and Peter Lawrence each served as police officers. I urge the governor to bring their voices into the discussion. It is disappointing that the search committee announced by the governor neglected to include any representation from the state Assembly.It’s nice to give former staffers a role in the process. But a decision this important requires perspectives from individuals who have walked a beat, put themselves in harm’s way, and carry unique perspectives as both law enforcement officers and representatives in Albany.”Assemblymen Montesano (R,I,C-Glen Head) and Graf (R,C,I-Holbrook) each served in the New York City Police Department. Assemblyman Lawrence (R,C,I-Greece) was a member of the State Police for nearly 29 years.